It's not because all of the members of the denomination live in the state of Missouri! It's simply a reference to the area where many of the founders of this denomination first settled. The word "Synod" means "walking together." Over 6000 congregations in the United States and 350 congregation in Texas combine efforts in mission and education.

Being a Missouri Synod church, first of all, means that we are founded on, dedicated to, and normed by The Bible. The Missouri Synod teaches that the Scriptures are the sole source and norm of doctrine and practice. This is a solidly Biblical church! Second, being a Missouri Synod church means that we are committed to mission. The Missouri Synod, from its outset, made a commitment to local and world mission and outreach. That is still true today as our congregation, working with the Synod and in our own ministries, reaches into the community and the world with the Good News of Jesus.

The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod believes that the Bible is the inspired and inerrant Word of God. That teaching is based on what the Bible says. 2 Timothy 3:16 says, "All scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness." 2 Peter 1:20-21 says, "Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet's own interpretation. For prophecy never had it's origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit." The teaching simply means that the Bible is God's Word and is accurate in all its teachings. The Biblical nature of the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod is also reflected in Martin Luther's three key phrases for the church: Scripture Alone, Grace Alone, and Faith Alone. Luther taught that the Bible is the foundation for who we are as God's people. The Bible makes clear that we are saved, not by our own good works, but only by the grace of God - His undeserved love for us demonstrated in Jesus' death on the cross and resurrection from the grave. The Bible also makes clear that the Holy Spirit creates faith in us, and it is by this faith that we receive the blessings of forgiveness and eternal life.

There are a few different Lutheran denominations in our country right now. The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod is unique in its solid stand on and teaching of the Bible. In that way it is very similar to many Bible-believing churches in the Evangelical world. The Lutheran church, however, is also a sacramental church. That means that Lutherans believe that baptism and communion are not just symbolic rites done as an expression of personal faith, but ways God is at work in our lives with His grace and blessing. The Bible tells us that baptism and communion bring God's blessing and grace to us. These are special gifts that we receive with joy - gifts that work together with God's Word for the strength of our faith.